We were delighted to finally say hello to Gainsborough at our belated launch event on Saturday 26 June.  As the first event in Gainsborough for some time The Merrye Olde Market on Lord Street was our chance to bring together all of Gainsborough’s Heritage visitor atractions as stall-holders in a historic costumed market.  Each stall represented a relevent era of history to their site and had devised games, competitions, tasting sessions and give-aways to amuse the crowds and remind Gainsborough of the excellent entertainment attractions we have.  After a year of closure for many, this was a great way to tell people about their re-opening plans and any events that they have coming up.  English Heritage were able to publicise their re-opening of the Old Hall on Saturday 3 July whilst offering tastings of their mead selection.  The Heritage Centre were able to sell some local history items and remind people that they are now open on Saturdays,  The Old Nick devised a ‘name the play’ quiz with props and brought a pillory, which offered a great photo opportunity for aspiring criminals!  The Hi V creche from The Trinity Arts Centre brought lots of delicious cakes and biscuits as well as a sand pit and play activities for the little ones.

The historic theme was continued with a medievel potter, cooks and dancers, musicians, archaeologists with Saxon treasures found in West Lindsey, a historic buildings quiz for families, a historic hat competition for children and regular dance performances throughout the day.  The children also enjoyed writing their thoughts on our graffiti wall.   We had visit from the Chairman and Chief Executive of West Lindsey District Council to award prizes to our competition winners and to meet the people.

There was very positive feedback from visitors on the day who were delighted to see Gainsborough ‘buzzing and full of life’.  Several people expressed their joy at being able to get out and ‘do something’.

Our stall-holders had all enjoyed re-connecting with the people of Gainsborough and bringing their venues back into people’s thoughts.

We intend to bring you up to date on a more regular basis with our behind-the-scenes activity as well as future public events and activities, so please do follow us here and on our Facebook page

@gainsboroughtownscapeheritage